But no administrators were present to answer student concerns--although Dean of the College Harry R. Lewis '68 had been invited but had another commitment, according to moderator Stephen N. Smith '02.

In addition to debate over the Ad Board, the forum featured representatives of the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center and other support groups, who spoke and distributed information about resources for victims of sexual violence.

Driskell also pronounced the interactive panel discussion on self-segregation--as opposed to forced segregation--a success, noting the high attendance and variety of views expressed during the discussion.

"So much has been said [tonight], even that the choir was preaching to the choir. But sometimes the choir's got to get stronger," Driskell said.

The lively debate touched upon issues from the effects of randomization to the different components of student identity and self-segregation--from race and religion to sexual orientation.

"I thought the entire discussion was very, very substantive with a broad variety of viewpoints articulately expressed," said moderator and Master of Winthrop House Paul D. Hanson. "There were honest differences and it was a completely civil discussion."

While some students criticized "University-imposed diversity" in the form of randomization and spoke of the powerful factors working in favor of creating bonds based on culture, others welcomed randomization as an opportunity to step out of comfort zones.

Audience member Ama K. Karikari '02 espoused the latter view.